15 superb Facts About Banasura Dam, Wayanad in Kerala
Banasura Dam is a prominent tourist attraction located in Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is an impressive earthen dam constructed over the Karamanathodu River, which is a tributary of the Kabini River. The dam is named after Banasura, a mythical character from Indian mythology.
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The Banasura Dam stands as the largest earthen dam in India and the second-largest in Asia. Its construction began in 1979 and was completed in 2005. The primary purpose of the dam is to facilitate irrigation and provide drinking water for nearby areas.
Scenic reservoir
The dam creates a scenic reservoir known as Banasura Sagar, which is surrounded by picturesque hills and lush greenery. This picturesque setting attracts a large number of tourists who visit to enjoy the serene surroundings and engage in various recreational activities.
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Boating is a popular activity at the Dam, allowing visitors to explore the reservoir and bask in the tranquility of the surroundings. Tourists can choose between pedal boats and speedboats to navigate through the water and admire the submerged hills that create small islands within the reservoir.
The vicinity of the Dam is teeming with biodiversity, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. The region is home to diverse species of flora and fauna, making it a delightful destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Adventure at Banasura Dam
Adventure seekers can indulge in trekking or hiking in the surrounding Banasura Hills, which provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. There is also a small garden near the dam that adds to the scenic beauty of the area.
Photographers often flock to the Dam to capture the breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The dam’s surroundings have been featured in movies and music videos, further enhancing its popularity.
Facts
1. Banasura Dam is located in Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is built over the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of the Kabini River.
2. It is named after Banasura, a mythical character from Indian mythology who was a son of King Mahabali.
3. It is the largest earthen dam in India and the second-largest in Asia. It stands at a height of 132 meters and stretches across a length of 1.6 kilometers.
4. The dam project was initiated in 1979 and was completed in 2005. It was built with the primary purpose of containing water for irrigation and drinking purposes.
5. The reservoir created by the dam is known as Banasura Sagar and is surrounded by picturesque hills and lush greenery, attracting tourists from all over.
Boating
6. Boating is a popular activity in it. Tourists can rent pedal boats or speedboats to explore the reservoir and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
7. The dam site offers stunning views with islands formed by the submerged hills, giving it a unique appearance.
8. The surrounding area of the Dam is known for its biodiversity. It is home to various species of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
9. Adventure enthusiasts can engage in activities like trekking and hiking around the dam and the nearby Banasura Hills. The trails offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
10. A small garden near the dam showcases a variety of plants and flowers, enhancing the scenic beauty of the area.
Resort
11. The Banasura Sagar Dam is part of the Banasura Hill Resort, which offers accommodation facilities for tourists who wish to stay nearby and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
12. The dam is situated in the midst of the Banasura Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, which is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and various species of birds.
13. The dam has also become a popular spot for photographers, who capture the beauty of the surroundings, especially during sunset and sunrise.
14. Banasura Dam and its surroundings have been featured in several movies and music videos due to its picturesque location.
15. Visiting Banasura Dam during monsoon season adds to its charm, as the dam gets surrounded by dense fog and the water level rises, creating a mesmerizing ambiance.
Overall, Banasura Dam in Wayanad is not only a significant engineering marvel but also a tourist attraction that offers breathtaking natural beauty and opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
